Passing the Torch of Remembrance – 100th Anniversary of Battle of Vimy Ridge

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by Lily-Ann Schneider, Jean Vanier Catholic HS

After a voyage through battlefields and historical monuments in Italy, 32 students and teachers from Jean Vanier Catholic High School in Collingwood travelled to the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge ceremony.

Have you ever had the unforgettable experience of hearing thousands of Canadians sing the national anthem? Or attended an event that will be remembered in history? 12,000 Canadians students, from the west to east coast from the farthest north and the most southern point of our country, attended this memorable event to remember those who gave their lives for our future and freedom.

The ceremony was to honour the sacrifices and accomplishments of the brave soldiers, who participated in the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917. As well, the ceremony showed how the Torch of Remembrance is being passed to the youth of today. As it says in the poem ‘In Flanders Fields’ by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, “to you, from failing hands, we throw/the torch: be yours to hold it high”. The youth will now carry the torch of those passed and bring glory to those who lost their lives for freedom and peace.

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This event had many world leaders in attendance, including the Prime Minister of Canada, the President of France, and the three British princes: Prince Charles, Prince William, and Prince Harry. It was truly amazing to listen to the work of many well-known Canadian performers, actors and musicians, and watch Canadian values portrayed from the battle that are still relevant today.